PEOPLE over 65, those with serious medical conditions and all healthy two to seven-year-old children are encouraged to take up the offer of a free flu vaccination.

GPs advise all vulnerable groups to protect themselves this winter by getting in touch to arrange to be vaccinated.

The children’s vaccine is a nasal spray and although they are not at greater risk it will help prevent the spread of flu amongst the elderly.

Dr Stewart Findlay, chief clinical officer for Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield Clinical Commissioning Group, said flu is unpleasant, although not life-threatening for most people – but can be serious for vulnerable groups.

They include older people, those with weakened immune systems and underlying conditions such as neurological disorders, liver, lung or renal disease, heart problems or diabetes and pregnant women.